Not even two full days into the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, and the anti-Israel sentiment has gone from a simmer to a full blown boil.
Tensions are expected to rise throughout the week thanks in large part to organized, pro-Palestine rallies.
But a Fox News photographer on the ground captured something much worse at one of the peaceful rallies.
A terrorist flag.
Per a Fox News report, a Hamas flag was spotted at an anti-Israel rally in Chicago Monday hours before the Democratic National Convention was set to begin.
The Fox News photographer spotted what appeared to be a Hamas flag in the crowd at the March on the DNC rally. The Hamas flag shared a pole with a Palestinian flag.
Take a look:
Hamas flag spotted at anti-Israel rally near DNC as Chicago braces for possible unrest https://t.co/qohGIjV2Vu
— Fox News (@FoxNews) August 20, 2024
Despite the hateful rhetoric, Chicago officials remain optimistic this won’t spiral out of control.
Chicago officials said they were committed to keeping the demonstrations peaceful, though the city remains on edge. Police officers are prepared to intervene if necessary, having undergone extensive training on constitutional policing and de-escalation tactics.
“The U.S. Secret Service, along with its federal, state, and local partners, respects the right of the public to demonstrate. We make no distinction on the purpose, message or intent of any particular group,” Chicago police told Fox News in a statement.
“The Chicago Police Department, as well as other partners, are prepared to manage demonstrations, enabling groups to express their First Amendment rights safely. If individuals or groups decide to act unlawfully, plans have been put in place to efficiently and safely address them.”
However, activists said they were ready to amplify their progressive message before the nation’s top Democratic leaders.
If this is a sign of things to come in Chicago this week, things could get ugly.